EU calls for immediate halt to violence against women

KABUL (Pajhwok): The European union (EU) has expressed disappointment over incidents of violence against women, with 3,778 such cases recorded this year.

The incidents included 231 cases of murder, 1003 cases of beating and 38 instances of rape, a statement from the EU said on Saturday.

“This is highly worrying and unacceptable. On the occasion of the International Day of Elimination of Violence Against Women, the EU Delegation calls for prompt and significant action from the Afghan government to end violence against women.”

The EU statement added it was another difficult year for the Afghan women. According to the newly-published report of the Independent Human Rights Commission of Afghanistan, the level of violence against women remains the same.

"The new figures about violence against women in Afghanistan are highly disappointing. Elimination of violence against women has been a major task of the Afghan government and international community and it is crucial to see rapid improvements in this area.

“The National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security needs to be implemented and there must be full participation of women in all aspects of social and political life, including the peace process and elections" said the EU Delegation head, Ambassador Pierre Mayaudon.

Elimination of violence and discrimination against women and girls remained a pivotal objective of the EU’s human rights policy. The EU reaffirmed its strong commitment to eliminating violence against all women and girls.